Bill Introduced to Decriminalize Marijuana in North Dakota

While it seems as if the Compassionate Care Act, which legalizes the use of medicinal marijuana in the state is still on hold until at least July, a new bill has been introduced that would decriminalize the drug altogether.

Republican Bismarck Representative Rick Becker has introduced said bill. The proposed would not legalize marijuana, but would lower the penalty for possessing, smoking, or distributing the drug. Instead of jail time, the penalty would be a fine if convicted.

However, certain cases of distribution, selling to a minor for instance, would remain as an offense that would see jail time.

Aaron Birst of the State's Attorney Association mentions that he wouldn't take issue with decriminalizing personal use, but doesn't like the idea of decriminalizing distribution.